Genesis 32-33

“Please deliver me from the hand of my brother, from the hand of Esau, for I fear him …” (32:11).  Jacob’s total dependence on the Lord and his honesty about his own weakness reveals how he had changed.  Years earlier, he had cruelly stolen from Esau in order to enrich himself; now, he knows that everything he has is an undeserved gift that depends on God’s protection.  When he wrestles with the mysterious man in the night, he wants the most valuable prize: God’s blessing (32:26).

Jacob’s motivation was (like most of us) basically selfish, but he had learned one true thing: God is the source of all lasting joy and satisfaction.  Believing this is the foundation for trusting Him.